How to Change Medicare Plans During Open Enrollment

Feeling Stuck with the Wrong Medicare Plan? You’re Not Alone

Every fall, millions of seniors stare at a stack of Medicare mailings and feel overwhelmed. If you’ve ever wondered how to change Medicare plans during Open Enrollment, you’re in good company — and the good news is, it’s simpler than you think.

According to a 2023 KFF analysis, only about 30% of Medicare Advantage enrollees compare their plan options each year, even though plans change their costs, drug formularies, and provider networks annually. That means roughly 7 out of 10 people may be paying more than they need to — or missing out on better coverage.

What Is Medicare Open Enrollment (and When Does It Happen)?

Medicare Open Enrollment — officially called the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) — runs from October 15 through December 7 every year. Changes take effect on January 1 of the following year.

During this period, you can switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage (or vice versa), change Medicare Advantage plans, join or switch Part D plans, or drop Part D coverage.

Step 1: Review Your Annual Notice of Change

Every September, your Medicare plan sends you an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). This document tells you exactly what’s changing: monthly premiums, deductibles and copays, drug formulary changes, provider network changes, and extra benefits. Read it carefully and highlight anything that affects you directly.

Step 2: Compare Your Options

Use the official Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov to compare plans with your medications, doctors, and pharmacies. Before comparing, make a must-have list: Does the plan cover your prescriptions? Are your doctors in-network? What’s the maximum out-of-pocket limit? Do you need dental, vision, or hearing benefits?

Don’t just look at the premium — the total cost of care is what matters. To organize your comparison, download our free Medicare checklist.

Step 3: Enroll in Your New Plan

You can enroll online at Medicare.gov, by phone at 1-800-MEDICARE (available 24/7), through a licensed insurance agent, or in person through your local SHIP counselor. Once you enroll in a new plan, your old plan is automatically canceled. New coverage begins January 1.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Doing nothing year after year — plans change annually and CMS estimates many could save $600+ by comparing options.
• Ignoring the drug formulary — verify your medications are covered at the right tier.
• Forgetting to check provider networks — confirm your doctors participate in the new plan.
• Missing the December 7 deadline — there’s no grace period.

What If You Change Your Mind After Enrolling?

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1–March 31) lets you switch plans or return to Original Medicare once. But it’s always better to do your homework during the fall AEP.

Take Charge This Year

Open Enrollment runs October 15 through December 7. Review your ANOC, compare your options, and enroll with confidence. For more guidance, explore our Medicare blog.